Gimme A Little Lark

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Gimme A Little Lark, a cherished mare whose legacy lives on in the show pen through amateur-friendly, big-hearted horses doing great things with their people. Owned and loved by Amber & Jessie Watts, “Gimme” was humanely euthanized on December 15, 2025 following a severe colic that did not respond to treatment. She was the golden age of 27.

Gimme’s story is stitched with grit and affection. Gifted to Amber by Don Martin in 2000, who famously called her “tough as woodpecker lips”, she wasn’t destined to be a riding horse, but she excelled at being a mother. Gimme raised five successful foals whose kindness, try, and trainability became her signature in the ring and at home.

Among them is Jenna’s beloved mare Rugged Acres (“Cracker”), also gifted by Don to Jenna Seal, a mirror of her dam in look and heart, and the foundation of a family that continues to shine. Through Cracker, Gimme is the grand-dam of Jenna’s young stallion Rugged in Wranglers (“Graham”), as well as the grand-dam to Suddenly Rugged, Bet Shez Rugged, Miss Rugged Jonez, and Zeze Topp. Another daughter, Damnnn You Glo Girl, earned a Reserve title at the All American Quarter Horse Congress in heeling, while the rest of Gimme’s foals collected countless 4-H and AQHA honours—quiet proof of a mare who stamped both quality and good minds.

Gimme was opinionated, a little spooky, and happiest with company, yet she loved her people, and they loved her right back. Those who knew her will smile at the memory of her big personality and bigger presence around the farm. The wish for “just one more foal” is a testament to how special she was and how deeply her family believed in the horses she made.

To Amber, Jessie, Jenna, and all who were part of Gimme’s life and lineage, we offer our deepest condolences. May every future win by her daughters and grand-get be a tip of the hat to the mare who started it all. Run free, Gimme, you did your job beautifully, and you are already missed.